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An algorithm developed by IBM researchers can identify data irregularities 100 times faster than previous methods, a finding that could create new data-mining opportunities across a range of applications. The ability to easily spot quirks in sales data could allow companies to discover additional marketing opportunities, IBM researchers say. "This brings analytics to everyone, not just businesses with access to a Department of Energy supercomputer," IBM researcher Costas Bekas says.

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The hottest commodity for tech recruiters in the Silicon Valley is now employees with backgrounds in statistics, math and "machine learning," Jessica Vascellaro writes. Companies are realizing the value of those who have data-mining abilities and are becoming less concerned with the specific type of degree a candidate holds.

IBM researchers say they have made progress in developing a device that could be used to send information internally with light instead of relying on wires, a breakthrough that could increase speed while reducing material costs and energy use.

IT budgets are expected to increase this year, but most spending will be dedicated to maintenance and upgrades, according to a Forrester Research report. "As long as businesses are prioritizing cost cutting and efficiency improvements, tech vendors must provide clearer business justifications for their offerings and demonstrate the functional fit with business requirements that their solutions provide," says Forrester senior analyst Holger Kisker.

Businesses can take a few simple steps to reduce their network vulnerability, such as decommissioning disused systems, monitoring vendor interactions or creating separate segments within a network to contain any attacks, according to Nicholas Percoco of SpiderLabs. An analysis of almost 1,900 penetration tests by SpiderLabs showed that network intruders tend to use known exploits that users haven't gotten around to patching. Percoco suggests that regular security training for all employees is a must for companies looking to protect their data.